CHERCHEZ LA FEMME: FEMINISM AND CLASS

We know that gender discrimination doesn’t stand in isolation from other oppressive forces, such as the marginalisation of people based on race, disability and sexuality. But one of the most broad-reaching intersections of inequality is one that’s often overlooked in mainstream public discourse on gender equality: class.

It’s a fact that working class women are more likely to experience disadvantage when it comes to the gender pay gap, superannuation, housing, healthcare and childcare.

But despite these wider systems of inequality, working class women have organised and mobilised their causes to create powerful and long-lasting change. International Women’s Day was established by working women who wouldn’t accept that their work and lives were less valuable than those of their middle class counterparts. The illusion that mainstream feminist activism provides a ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution to the problems of all women continues to be challenged by staunch working class women who demand that their experiences be included and made visible to those in positions of power. And that’s only the beginning.

So for this CLF show, we wanted to talk about how class and feminism interact, and how class can unduly effect women. Joining us for this very special CLF show is the indomitable Van Badham, who will be our guest host. Alongside Van, we’re thrilled to present:
– Natasha Smith: Activist, researcher, psychologist, feminist

– Alicia Sometimes: Writer, poet, broadcaster, feminist

– Kara Keys: Union organiser, activist, feminist

We can’t wait to welcome you to the Melba Spiegeltent for what will be a lively and robust discussion! The full details are: